As if the real-life presidential election cycle in the US wasn’t traumatising enough, House of Cards season 5 will thrust us right into the thick of Netflix’s own fictionalised account, as the Underwoods campaign for Frank’s presidency.

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But behind every despicable president is an entire squad of shady characters.

Get to know the major players of the new season below.

Kevin Spacey – Frank Underwood

Who does he play?

The devious democratic politician who became the 46th president of the United States after underhandedly engineering the resignation of his former chief. Season 5 finds him hot on the campaign trail for the 2016 presidential election, while stoking the fears of the American public by hamming up the threat of terrorism.

Where have I seen him before?

How long have you got? Spacey is Hollywood royalty. His best and most well-known roles include American Beauty, Se7en and The Usual Suspects.

Robin Wright – Claire Underwood

Who does she play?

The First lady of the United States, Frank Underwood’s wife and running mate in the 2016 election. Claire amplifies her husband’s negative traits, and shares his thirst for power. As season 5 begins she is cultivating an affair with speechwriter Thomas Yates.

Where have I seen her before?

Her big break came in the 1980s as Buttercup in cult classic The Princess Bride, but you may also know her as Jenny in Forrest Gump, or more recently sports drama Moneyball with Brad Pitt.

Frank’s right-hand man, who has proven he will do anything for his President, including murder. Season 5 throws up new obstacles for Stamper, as he battles personal demons and feels threatened by a new advisor in Frank’s sphere.

Where have I seen him before?

Kelly had a major guest starring role in The Soprano’s and appeared alongside House of Cards co-star Robin Wright in M Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable.

Campbell Scott – Mark Usher

Who does he play?

Doug Stamper’s new adversary and a top-level advisor to the President.

Where have I seen him before?

Scott’s pedigree is in theatre, but you may recognise him from The Amazing Spiderman, or the TV show Damages.

Patricia Clarkson – Jane Davis

Who does she play?

Another new addition to the Underwood’s political fold, who forges a strong bond with Claire.

Where have I seen her before?

Clarkson and Spacey appeared together in 1988’s Rocket Gibraltar, but she is perhaps best known for her role in the George Clooney-led historical drama Good Night, And Good Luck.

A White House speechwriter who is entangled in an affair with Claire Underwood.

Where have I seen him before?

Sparks is best known for his role as Mickey Doyle in Boardwalk Empire.

Boris McGiver – Tom Hammerschmidt

Who does he play?

An investigative journalist, formerly editor-in-chief of the Washington Herald, and perennial, who is set on bringing Frank underwood down, undeterred by the suspicious deaths of his former colleagues Zoe Barnes and Lucas Goodwin.

Where have I seen him before?

You may recognise McGiver from Jimmy Fallon’s dreadful 2004 remake of Taxi or from guest starring roles on Boardwalk Empire and The Wire.